Regulatory and Legal Affairs

🛂 New research by the World Travel & Tourism Council highlights risks tied to the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES). Potentially, 41 million arrivals and $45.4 billion in spending could be affected by long border delays. If delays exceed three hours, around 39% of UK, 33% of US and Canadian, and 27% of Australian travelers might avoid Schengen visits. Although 65% support EES, only 45% are aware of it. To improve the rollout, more digital tools and better communication are essential.

🏨 Ares Management and EQ Group sold the 151-room Novotel London Greenwich in the UK, acquired in 2024 for £400 million. Servatur Hotels bought the 312-room Allegro Isora in Tenerife, planning renovations. First Atlantic and Signa acquired the 70-room Lindenhof Resort in Italy, managing it from 2027. Extendam and Ker Hospitality sold the 64-room 1932 Hotel & Spa Cap d'Antibes in France, upgraded to four stars in 2022. Morgans Group bought The Harper hotel in Langham, UK, after a £6 million investment.

🍷 Bordeaux's 2025 En Primeur campaign is halfway through, with no wines sold out yet. Despite this, it's poised to be a standout year, ranking among the top three vintages of the last 18 years, just behind 2022. The campaign is cautious due to past disappointments and oversupply. However, high-quality wines with limited volumes are available, making 2025 a vintage worth considering. The En Primeur system's effectiveness has declined recently due to pricing issues and changing market dynamics.

📈 On May 26, Meliá Hotels International announced the immediate cessation of management and commercialization services for 15 hotels in Cuba owing to geopolitical and economic challenges. This decision affects hotels like Gran Hotel Bristol Habana Vieja and Paradisus Varadero. The majority were non-operational due to energy constraints and reduced demand. The company emphasizes an orderly disengagement and transparent communication with stakeholders, while monitoring future opportunities in Cuba.

💻 June 2, 2026, the White House issued an Executive Order on AI innovation and security. It mandates federal agencies to prioritize cyber defense within 30 days, establishes an AI cybersecurity clearinghouse, and extends AI cybersecurity tools to critical infrastructure. The Order emphasizes AI as a national strategic asset, urging collaboration for system modernization and intellectual property protection. For hospitality, it underscores the need for responsible AI governance and securing intelligent environments to enhance guest experiences.

💡 In 2026, eco-certifications are pivotal for hotels worldwide seeking to establish credibility with environmentally conscious travelers. These certifications validate sustainable practices and drive stronger demand. The article highlights the top eight green hotel certifications, emphasizing their role in transforming green initiatives into tangible benefits for the hospitality industry.

🏨 Revo Hospitality Group, operating 175 properties mainly in Germany and Austria, filed for insolvency in January at the Charlottenburg District Court, Berlin. At its peak, Revo managed up to 250 hotels. By June, the group faced full liquidation, with 450 staff in Berlin made redundant. Administrators are marketing 120 contracts to five selected bidders from over 100 offers. Prism, Oyo’s parent, and Aroundtown are speculated to be among these bidders.

🏨 In Arlington, Va., CoStar and Tourism Economics revised the 2026-27 U.S. hotel forecast. For 2026, ADR and RevPAR projections increased by 1.0 and 2.2 percentage points. Room demand rose over 8 million nights year-over-year in early 2026. While demand growth will moderate, ADR and RevPAR gains remain solid but below inflation rates. Leisure travel is stable, supported by job markets and household wealth. Group travel benefits from corporate profits, though international visitation is weak. Inflation easing may bolster the 2027 economy.